Janome 605 Sewing Machine Manual

The Janome 605 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for home use, featuring 15 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, drop feed for free-motion sewing, built-in needle threader, top-loading bobbin system, stitch length and width adjustment, reverse sewing function, and built-in accessory storage. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection & Functions 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessory Guide 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, free arm, accessory compartment, and easy threading system.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches15 utility and decorative stitches including stretch stitches
4-step buttonholeEasy-to-create perfect buttonholes
Drop feedFor free-motion sewing and darning
Built-in needle threaderAutomatic needle threading assistance
Top-loading bobbinEasy bobbin insertion and viewing
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable up to 5mm
Reverse sewingFor reinforcing seams
Free armFor sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in storageAccessory compartment in free arm

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Position machine: Place on flat, stable surface with adequate lighting.
  3. Connect foot control: Plug into machine's foot control port.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure stable surface placement.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading sequence.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel toward you.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch and tension settings.
  6. Adjust settings: Use stitch length and width dials as needed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button.

Side Controls: Hand wheel, bobbin winder, power/light switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 15 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width (0-5mm). Reverse: Hold button for backstitching. Tension: Upper thread tension dial (0-9 settings).

Stitch Selection & Functions

15 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: For basic sewing and seams (position 1)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and decorative work
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics and elastic
  5. Decorative Stitches: Multiple patterns for embellishment
  6. Buttonhole: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes
  7. Darning: Use with feed dogs dropped for mending

Tip: Always test stitches on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use sewing machine oil only)
  3. Monthly: Clean entire machine, check for loose screws
  4. Needle: Replace regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing)
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessory Guide

Included accessories and their uses.

AccessoryUse
Zigzag FootGeneral sewing and zigzag stitches
Zipper FootInstalling zippers and piping
Buttonhole FootCreating buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Bobbins (4)Extra bobbins for thread colors
Needles (3)Assorted needle sizes
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for machine operation.

WARNING! Never operate with damaged power cord or foot control.

Warranty Information

Janome 605 comes with 25-year limited warranty covering mechanical parts. Electronic components covered for 2 years. Labor covered for 1 year. Warranty valid for original purchaser with proof of purchase. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact authorized Janome dealer or call 1-800-631-0183.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't runPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot control plugged in; check power switch.
Thread breakingTension/needle issuesRethread machine; check needle for damage; adjust tension.
Skipped stitchesNeedle/bobbin problemsReplace needle; ensure proper bobbin insertion; check threading.
Uneven stitchesTension/thread qualityAdjust upper and bobbin tension; use quality thread.
Machine jamsThread buildupRemove needle plate; clean bobbin area; rethread carefully.
Noisy operationLack of lubricationOil machine following lubrication points in manual.

Service: 1-800-631-0183; www.janome.com

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